is a 2004 or 2005 model?

[gsmilleduecento]

I bought my 1200 GS in September 05. So I never questioned that the bike was a 2005 model. According to http://www.realoem.com/bmw/select.do the VIN# corresponds to a 08/05 manufacturing date.
But the registration certificate reports R1200GS 04 and the bike hasn't got the hazard switch on the left handle grip which I believe was added in the 2005 model.

What are the main differences between the two models and does it make a difference in re-selling price?

 

[Wizard]

Hazard switch was removed on post July 05 build bikes, and 1200GS 04 is a generic description of the bike for people who don't keep proper records (insurance companies etc.)

 

[whitegloss]

Hazard switch was removed on post July 05 build bikes, and 1200GS 04 is a generic description of the bike for people who don't keep proper records (insurance companies etc.)

Any ideas why the hazard switch was removed?

 

[Wizard]

Any ideas why the hazard switch was removed?

Cost cutting, perhaps. But what would they have saved on one switch?

It's also possible that it's down to failure. Not something I've come across, but one more switch is one more thing to fail, particularly when there may be water ingress.

Perhaps it's to allow the switch point to be used by options, without having to re-tool the production line that makes the switch housings (a very expensive process)?

And finally, maybe just because they can?

Anyway, I don't really mind either way...... the couple of times I've used the hazards, it's been under heavy braking...... and you try braking hard, keeping upright, and finding a single hazard switch at the same time But you use your indicators all the time, so you know exactly where they are

 

[Gonz]

Not sure, I think you can still activate the hazards by hitting both indicator padles simultaneously.

Gonz.

 

[dronning]

BMW VIN Decoder

handy little tool - it only gives the production date

BMW VIN Decoder

Dave

 

[WindyChuffer]

Just ring up any BMW dealer, give them chassis number and their computer will give you the year of the bike and build date.

 

[alimey4u2]

Interestingly, my date of manufacture was 2004 (from documentation) but I purchased my bike in 2005 as a 2005 model. On importing it to the UK (USA version) I had to declare it by its build date of 2004. It has the hazard warning switch on the left hand grip......

 

[bustupbiker]

I just ran the vin decoder, it told me mine was 2004/05 i checked my log book and it is 2005/04. I ran the decoder again and it gave me the correct info---2005/04

 

[gavin@iow]

I just ran the vin decoder, it told me mine was 2004/05 i checked my log book and it is 2005/04. I ran the decoder again and it gave me the correct info---2005/04

Mine comes up as 2004/06, and it was registered in June '04.